According to the Chinese lunar calendar, Mid-Autumn Festival or also called the Moon Festival is celebrated on the 4th of October this year. It is the second most important festival in the Chinese calendar after the Chinese New Year. Symbolism means family reunion and peace. Here are some events taking place in Scotland that you don't want to miss!
Guilin, China ©MDHarding
Celebrating China in Scotland
Terracotta warriors arrive at Stirling Castle
As part of the year History, Heritage and Archaeology 2017, Scotland has been presented with Terracotta Warrior replicas, using the same handcrafting techniques as the originals.
The original terracotta warriors represented the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of a unified China in 210–209 BCE, and whose purpose was to protect the emperor in his afterlife. The figures, dating from approximately the late 3rd century BCE, were discovered in 1974 by farmers in Lintong District, Xi’an, Shaanxi province.
Don't miss the ‘China Culture & Craft’ showcase which is being held at Stirling Castle in the Chapel Royal from 1 to 29 September 2017, as part of a collaboration between Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the University of Stirling, and the Art Exhibitions China.
The exhibition will showcase around 100 Chinese artisan craft objects, made with traditional materials and using traditional techniques. Some of them will be contemporary in design and material combined with traditional style, employing innovative craftsmanship. Exhibits include iconic bronze reproductions, stone crafts, wood crafts, and other creative productions made using traditional techniques.
The bronze reproductions include the famous Square Vessel (fang zun) with four rams which was made in the late Shang period between 1300-1046 BC and excavated in 1938, the Painted Goose and Fish Lamp which was made in the Western Han between 206 BC – 8 AD and excavated in 1985, and The Mask with Protruding Eyes, which was made in the late Shang between 1300-1046 BC and excavated in 1986 at Sanxingdui.
The small-size reproductions of the Bronze Chariot and Horses which was excavated from Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum and other terracotta warriors-related creative productions will also be displayed in this showcase.
Entry to the ‘China Culture & Craft’ showcase is included in the normal Stirling Castle admission price and is free for members.
Terracotta Warrior at Stirling Castle ©Historic Environment Scotland
RSNO Gala Concerts: China Story
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra is performing China Story at the Usher Hall, Edinburgh for one night only Friday 29th September, and at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on Saturday 30th September 2017. Celebrating one of China's greatest composers - Xiaogang Ye.
Go on a journey with the music of a "broad mind and a big heart". Said to be "colourful, melodious and deeply emotional", and that the "music draws on the ancient poetry of China to tell universal stories".
Gilbert Varga and four handpicked soloists will also be performing "alongside the music of Benjamin Britten – another great composer who took his inspiration from wind, water, and the human heart".
RSNO: China Story ©City of Edinburgh Council
TEAWON Gong Fu Tea Tasting event Mid-Autumn Festival with moon cakes
If you can't make the event, why not try to make your own moon cakes and celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival on October 4th?
Giant Lanterns of China
This winter, RZSS Edinburgh Zoo will be home to The Giant Lanterns of China, an installation of over 450 dazzling giant lanterns that will illuminate the Zoo for 50 awe-inspiring nights.
A magical trail awaits, where you will discover beautifully crafted lanterns, rich with colour and character. Some that you will see include the dragon, temple, and zodiac signs, alongside over 200 animal-themed lanterns including giant pandas, lions, and penguins.
Be wowed by Chinese performers, enjoy wintery hot drinks and snacks, and shop in our Christmas marketplace featuring hand-made crafts from Chinese artisans.
The partnership to create the lanterns stems from a long-standing relationship between RZSS and Sichuan, the birthplace of Edinburgh Zoo’s giant pandas.
Brought to you in partnership with the VYA Creative Lantern Company and DDM Entertainment and Events Inc.
There are 50 dates available from 1 Dec 2017 to 25 Feb 2018. The event has half-hour entry timeslots from 4.30pm to 7.30pm (for a 9pm finish). You will be asked to select an entry time after you have selected your tickets.
Full details, FAQs, and T&Cs can be found at www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/lanterns.
Giant Lanterns of China ©RZSS Edinburgh Zoo
I hope you have enjoyed reading and are inspired to visit one of the events. As always, I would love to hear from you. You can email me at: enquiries@MDHardingTravelPhotography.com
A bright moon and stars twinkle and shine. Wishing you a merry Mid-Autumn Festival, bliss, and happiness. 皓月闪烁，星光闪耀，中秋佳节，美满快乐！ Hàoyuè shǎnshuò, xīngguāng shǎnyào, zhōngqiū jiājié, měimǎn kuàilè!